Read W.H. Auden's "The Unknown Citizen"
Respond to this poem using the questions below:
1. Do you think this poem gives a true and timeless picture of society that still holds true today?
2. What did the unknown citizen do for a living? What facts are reported on his conduct, and what agencies and groups are the ones contributing to the report?
3. Who do you think is the speaker of the poem? Although the poet does not directly state his opinions in this poem, how would you describe the tone that clearly emerges?
4. What would you say is the message or theme of the poem? How do you feel about Auden's message?
5. Find examples of impersonal, bureaucratic language used in the poem. Do you read or hear language like this today? If so, where and in what circumstances?
Discussion question:
The poem seems to depict the "unknown citizen" as a colorless stereotype. Did you, however, sympathize with the citizen? Explain why or why not. (record notes and conclusions from your discussion)
Relating this poem to your dystopian novel (individually answer this question in at least one paragraph with specific references to your book throughout the response):
How is the individual and one's individuality, freedom, and rights treated by the government or society in your book? What is the intended affect of this treatment of the individual upon the citizens? Finally, compare how the "unknown citizen" in Auden's poem is treated vs. how your characters are treated in the book.
Extending your thinking:
Read this related poem and compare it to Auden's "The Unknown Citizen" in both tone, theme, and subject matter. Discuss these comparisons within your group (no need to record info. here)
